Health & Safety

Last Updated: 08/31/23

MASKING OPTIONAL

As we return this fall, the safety and health of our singers remains a top priority. Masks are optional for singers and staff during BCC rehearsals and activities. Masks remain an effective way to slow the spread of COVID-19 and other airborne illnesses and are recommended when indoors and unable to distance. We will continue to monitor and consult with medical professionals in our community regarding COVID-19 and any other major health risks that may arise. Our guidelines may be adjusted at any time for the safety of all in our community.  

VACCINATION IS NOT REQUIRED TO PARTICIPATE

Boston Children’s Chorus does not require vaccination for our singers to participate in rehearsals; however, we will continue to respect and follow the policies of each venue where performances take place. As such, there will be occasions where only vaccinated singers will be able to perform live, per specific concert venue or performance organizer guidelines. These requirements and guidelines will be shared openly with our singers and families ahead of each major concert and performance opportunity. Please check your Monday weekly rehearsal email for the most up-to-date policies for your singer regarding their upcoming performances. TESTING FOR

CONCERTS & EXCURSIONS

Testing for COVID-19 (rapid test) will be required on the day of each performance and corresponding dress rehearsal.

A PCR test for COVID-19 will be required within 72 hours of leaving for an overnight trip with BCC. Rapid tests will be taken on the day of departure.

CONTINUED SAFETY

We ask that you continue to monitor symptoms at home and please keep your singers at home if they are feeling unwell. When engaging in BCC activities, please be respectful of each other, maintain distance, wash hands, and practice good hygiene. 

There are many ways to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 and other viruses. Vaccination continues to be the most effective strategy to lower risk of hospitalization from COVID-19. BCC highly encourages vaccination against COVID-19 for the safety of our entire community, especially the most vulnerable. 

HEALTH AND SAFETY GUIDELINES FOR IN-PERSON ACTIVITIES

The guidelines outlined below will be in effect for the duration of the 2022-2023 season unless otherwise notified.  

  1. Monitor for symptoms and stay home when sick: Staff will monitor themselves for symptoms daily and singers, with the assistance of families, must also monitor daily for symptoms before coming to rehearsals. Staff and students must stay home if feeling unwell. Everyone must do their part to protect others and not come to rehearsals if they are exhibiting any COVID-19 symptoms or are feeling sick. If a singer becomes ill during a BCC activity, a mask will be provided, the singer will move to an isolated room with a staff member, and a parent or guardian will be contacted to coordinate pickup. 
  2. Keep us informed: If your singer tests positive for COVID-19, please report the case to our Program Coordinator at info@bostonchildrenschorus.org. Your personal information will not be shared. We will check in with the affected singer and their family to coordinate when they are able to return to rehearsal. Thank you for your cooperation.

TESTING PROCEDURE

If you are exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19, please stay home. Call your child’s primary care physician, local community health center, or local COVID-19 testing site. A list of test sites throughout Boston can be found here. Information about securing an at-home test can be found here. 

If a member of our community tests positive for COVID-19, they will not be allowed to return to rehearsals until 5 days after the positive test, and they must remain masked until day 10, or until a rapid test returns negative. Rehearsals for remaining singers will continue.

If your singer tests positive for COVID-19, please report the case immediately to our Program Coordinator at info@bostonchildrenschorus.org. We will check in with the affected singer and their family to coordinate when they are able to return to rehearsal. Thank you for your cooperation.